Like the Axis and Sambar Deer, the Rusa has only three points to a side. At first it is difficult to tell the difference between Sambar and Rusa, but at closer observation you will note that the Rusa's body weight is less that Sambar and their ears are more pointed, while Sambar's ears are more rounded.  Additionally, the third (or top) tine of the Rusa forks to the front of the main bean, while the Sambar's forks to the back.  There are two subspecies of Rusa- Molokan and Javan. The Javan is the bigger of the two and can be found in both Australia and New Caledonia; but the largest are on New Caledonia (the Molokan is not found on New Caledonia, only in Australia).  The trophy fee on the Rusa is less than Red Deer or Sambar. Molokan Rusa Deer are quite plentiful in SE Australia.

These species can be difficult to bowhunt.